Smith back to lead Highlanders

Ben Smith returns to the Highlanders' starting line-up as captain, in a team named by head coach Jamie Joseph to face the Waratahs in a pre-season match in Newcastle on Friday.

Ben Smith returns to the Highlanders' starting line-up as captain, in a team named by head coach Jamie Joseph to face the Waratahs in a pre-season match in Newcastle on Friday.

The All Black fullback will be joined in his return by national teammate and scrumhalf Aaron Smith. Both players will return from a period of rest to claim their places in starting line-up for the first time this season.

Shane Christie returns from injury to take the No. 8 jersey in his first start for the Highlanders, while Lima Sopoaga will be starting in the flyhalf position with Kane Hames and Ged Robinson in the front row.

After a tough encounter in Motueka against the Crusaders last week which they lost 15-28, the Highlanders will be looking to continue some of their second half form, which saw them outscore the Crusaders 12-7 in the final forty minutes, into their final pre-season match against the men from Sydney.

The Highlanders will play their first Super Rugby match of 2014 against the Blues in Dunedin on Saturday 22nd February.